Domestic Violence

What is meant by ‘Domestic violence’?

The Home Office defines Domestic violence as ‘any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between adults who are or have been in a relationship together, or between family members, regardless of gender or sexuality’. It can include physical assault, sexual abuse and verbal threats. It can also include more subtle attacks such as pressure tactics, constant breaking of trust, isolation, psychological games and harassment. It can affect partners in all types of relationships and can also involve violence between parents and children.

Some More Signs of Domestic Abuse

Hitting

Biting

Kicking

Shoving

Restraining

Throwing objects

Threats

Emotional Abuse

Bullying

Facts & Figures

It is widely accepted that incidences of domestic violence go unreported, however it is estimated that domestic violence:

Accounts for 16% of all violent crime (Source: Crime in England and Wales 2004/2005 report)

Has more repeat victims than any other crime (on average there will have been 35 assaults before a victim calls the police)

Costs in excess of £23bn a year

Claims the lives of two women each week and 30 men per year

Is the largest cause of morbidity worldwide in women aged 19-44, greater than war, cancer or motor vehicle accidents

Will affect 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime If you are in an abusive relationship, there are three important steps you can take.

Recognise that it is happening to you

Accept that you are not to blame

Get help and support

In an emergency, you should call the police on 999 (minicom 0800 112 999). Domestic violence is treated very seriously by the police and the courts.

You can also call the 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247.